I had a rather different experience.

I would see the previous patient in her car, trying to compose herself before she drove off. I would always feel a surge of compassion, of fellow-feeling. I would think: "I hope she's all right"

Then one week she wasn't there. What happened? Has she stopped coming? I felt sad. But later on she was back.

We never exchanged a word. I waved to her once and she smiled. That was all.

Now I've moved to a different time slot and I don't see her any more. I miss her.

Why should I weep over that? But I do. I'll never know that she is happy.